“It is sealed up in the royal exchequer and can be opened only in case the Prince—no, King Richard—shall die childless. Only the confidential witnesses know its contents,” said Höel.
“King Richard!” replied Constance. “God be thanked it is Richard who has come to the throne. He is noble and high-minded, and will protect us.”
“God grant it! Would that he could soon come to France and restore order.”
“Whence came the rider who brought the news?”
“From Rouen. English vessels have landed there, and brought Norman knights who were in the Scottish campaign. They will guard the country until he can come himself and take possession.”
“As soon as King Richard comes to Rouen, we will seek him there.”
“Meanwhile,” said Höel, “I will make ample preparations to insure your safety.”
“Is it not shameful,” said Constance indignantly, “that the Duchess of Brittany should be insecure in her own country?”
Höel was awaited in the hall by the two boys, who plied him with questions. The death of King Henry made a deep impression upon Arthur, who already realized that his fate had rested in his grandfather’s hands. For the first time also he realized the insecurity of human greatness, and when suddenly the bells tolled in the city’s church towers, and the castle chapel bell added its solemn peals, he was greatly overcome, and held fast to Alan’s hand.